SPRING TURKEY SEASON RUNS THROUGH MAY 31

Firearm hunters can hit the field April 9

PRATT –  A lot of work goes into prepping for a spring turkey hunt, from scouting roosting April 9 when the regular spring turkey season opens. Following the archery-only/ youth/disabled season, April 1-8, turkey hunters can hit the field with shotgun or archery equipment to take their shot at a spring turkey, or two. And thanks to equipment changes established last year, hunters may now use any gauge shotgun or muzzleloading shotgun with shot sizes No. 2 through No. 9 and crossbows to fill their spring turkey tags.

sights and sighting in shotguns, to mastering the perfect “cluck” and “purr” call. And all that hard work will pay off on

For hunters age 15 and younger, filling a tag has never been more affordable. Thanks to reduced youth permit pricing, resident youth hunters can now enjoy taking their shot at a spring turkey for just 7.50, and nonresident youth for 12.50.

Other 2014 Spring turkey permits can be purchased at the following prices:

• Resident Permit: $22.50
• Landowner/Tenant Permit: $12.50
• Resident Turkey Game Tag: $12.50
• Nonresident Permit: $32.50
• Nonresident Turkey Game Tag: $22.50

A turkey permit or game tag is valid for one bearded turkey. Any individual who has purchased a spring turkey permit is also eligible for one spring turkey game tag. Spring game tags are valid for Units 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6.

Hunters who drew a Unit 4 (southwest Kansas) spring turkey permit earlier this year may also use their Unit 4 permit in adjacent Units 1, 2 and 5.

Regardless of where you choose to hunt this spring, it’s not guaranteed you’ll fill a tag, but rest assured the opportunity is out there. For information on where you opportunity may await, consult the 2014 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlas, or visit www.ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting / Turkey Information.”

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SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS STUDYING WILDLIFE, NATURAL RESOURCES

Sundown - February 24, 2010 - Kansas City (Photo credit: CoolValley)

Interested applicants have until June 10 to apply

PRATT ­– The Willis Scholarship Foundation, in conjunction with the Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt, invites students currently enrolled in a Kansas regent’s institution pursuing a degree relating to wildlife, natural resources, and/or natural resource management to apply for a scholarship. The application period is open now through June 10, 2014.

Created in memory of Wayne Willis, a long time supporter of the Governor’s One Shot Spring Turkey  Hunt and renowned wildlife artist from the Wichita area, the scholarship foundation started in 1996 when the Past Shooters & Guides Association  offered two $1000 scholarships. Since then, approximately $400,000 has been awarded to Kansas students.

Successful applicants can be awarded $500 - $1,250 per semester, based on grade point average and the following criteria:

     - desire to pursue a career in wildlife or natural resources

     - maintain at least a2.5 GPA, pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher

     - Commit to attending the Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt, providing assistance where necessary

The 28th annual Kansas Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt will be held April 10, 11and 12, 2014 in El Dorado. Hunters from across the U.S. are participating this year, including Kansas Governor Sam Brownback.

Passing on the hunting heritage to the next generation remains a continued focus for the event. Twenty-three Kansas youth applied for a chance to participate in the Kansas Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt Youth Program 2014. Riley Brown of El Dorado, Allison Dix of Stockton, Joseph Heimann of Hays, Avery Lewellen of Wellington, Ethan Shaw of Logan and Jenna Smithson of Osage City are the six chosen this year.

For information on the Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt, visit www.ksgovsturkeyhunt.com, or contact Janet Post atjanet_turkeyhunt@live.com or (316) 321-3835.

For more information on the Willis Scholarship Foundation, Inc., and to receive an application, visit www.centralkansascf.org/non-profit-organizations/scholarships/.

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KDWPT HITS RECORD ENROLLMENT FOR SPRING TURKEY HUNTING ACCESS

Nearly 214,000 Walk-In Hunting Access acres are available this spring

PRATT – Hunting for spring turkeys can have it’s own set of challenges, but this year, finding

a place to hunt shouldn’t be one of them. Thanks to the Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program offered through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), hunters in search of this hardy bird will have access to nearly 214,000 privately-owned acres, in addition to the state- and federally-owned wildlife areas. And accessing maps to these locations has never been easier before. Hunters can locate 2014 Spring WIHA lands by:

-Grabbing a printed copy of the2014 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlasavailable wherever licenses are sold

-Downloading an online copy of the2014 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlasfrom ksoutdoors.com

-Uploading the locations directly to a Garmin GPS Unit

-Uploading the locations to the Google Earth digital globe, or handheld device through Google Earth Mobile

Prior to accessing any Kansas WIHA properties, hunters are reminded to review the WIHA Area Rules & Information section of the2014 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlas.

Although there are no additional fees or sign-up required to access Kansas WIHA properties, hunters are still encouraged to be courteous if someone else is already using the property. All enrolled tracts are marked with WIHA signs to designate boundaries. If a tract shows on the map but doesn’t have signs, don’t access it. WIHA land is enrolled voluntarily by Kansas landowners, who may remove their property from the program at any time, for any reason. If a tract is removed, the signs will be taken down. It is up to hunters to be responsible, respectful, ethical, and safe to ensure the future availability of these properties.

For more information on the WIHA program, visit ksoutdoor.com/wiha.

The 2014 spring turkey season will begin with the archery and youth/disabled season April 1-8, followed by the regular firearm seasonApril 9-May 31.

2014 Spring turkey permits­ for Units 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 are available online or at any license vendor through May 30.

Hunters who drew a Unit 4 (southwest Kansas) spring turkey permit earlier this year may also use their Unit 4 permit in adjacent Units 1, 2 and 5.

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35 SPRING TURKEY SPECIAL HUNTS STILL AVAILABLE

35 special hunts are still up for grabs this Spring

PRATT­­– The 2014 Spring Special Hunts draw may be over, but for several lucky turkey hunters, there’s still a chance to enjoy a special hunt this season. A total of 35 special hunts have remained unspoken for as of March 5, 2014. These hunts range anywhere from one day

to one month and are offered on a variety of different lands, including state parks, wildlife areas, Walk In Hunting Areas (WIHA's), national wildlife refuges, city and county properties, and other locations throughout the state.

Of the 35 hunts still available, 21 are “mentor” hunts, 12 are “youth” hunts, and two are “open” hunts. Mentored hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor 21 or older who may also hunt. Youth hunts require parties to include at least one youth 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult 21 or older who will not hunt. And open hunts are available to all successful applicants, regardless of age or hunting experience.

To view a complete list of the special hunts still available, visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting/Special Hunts Information.” To receive a permit for one of these hunts, contact the Region 1 Hays Office at (785) 628-8614.

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YOUTH HUNTERS WANTED FOR MELVERN SPRING TURKEY HUNT

Melvern Wildlife Area to host 2nd Annual Spring Turkey Hunt for youth

READING – The thundering gobble of a turkey in its roost, the spit and drum of a strutting tom, and the sight of a long-beard in full fan are experiences that fuel the passion in Kansas

turkey hunters. However, for many Kansas youth, the journey to becoming a turkey hunter has yet to begin.

A perfect start to the journey could be the Second Annual Spring Turkey Hunt at Melvern Wildlife Area. In an effort to share the spring turkey hunting experience with youngsters age 11-16, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, in cooperation with Flint Hills Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), will host the hunt on Saturday, April 5.

Designed to show beginning turkey hunters how exciting and fun spring turkey hunting is, this event will involve participants not only in the hunt, but also in its preparation. Young hunters will be provided an opportunity to pattern their shotgun, learn about turkeys and turkey hunting, and scout hunting locations the evening before the hunt.

The morning of the hunt, breakfast will be provided courtesy of the NWTF Flint Hills Gobblers chapter before youth will be guided to nearby public and private land where encounters with these magnificent game birds are likely. Program volunteers will arrange transportation to hunting sites and will be available to assist in the hunt. 

Interested parties can apply by March 12 by contacting Melvern Wildlife Area Assistant Manager Clint Bowman at (620) 699-3372. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

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2014 SPRING TURKEY SPECIAL HUNTS APPLICATION ON-LINE

Hunters have untilFeb. 24 to apply for spring special hunts

HAYS ­– Snow might be covering your block, but spring is just around the corner, and that Feb. 1-24, hunters can apply for a special hunt at ksoutdoors.com by clicking “Hunting/Special Hunts.” Following the application period, a random drawing will be held with notifications sent to successful and unsuccessful applicants vie e-mail. 

means turkey season is on its way. Spring turkey hunters can get a head start on the season by applying now for exclusive entry into areas with limited access through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) Special Hunts Program. While there is no guarantee of success, this special access usually means a higher quality hunt and potentially greater harvest rates. From

This year, the Spring Turkey Special Hunts Program is offering 202 different individual turkey hunts on 23 properties.  Half the hunts are “Open,” 58 are “Youth” hunts and 43 are “Mentor” hunts. The spring turkey special hunts occur on lands not normally open to public hunting including, but not limited to, wildlife areas, state parks, Corps of Engineers properties, National Wildlife Refuges, city and county parks and on private lands enrolled in the special hunts program. 

Open hunts are available to all hunters with no age or experience restrictions. Youth hunts are open to hunters 16 and younger accompanied by an adult. Mentor hunts are open to youth and novice hunters accompanied by an adult mentor. Both the youth/novice and the mentor may hunt during a mentor hunt. A novice is defined as a hunter who has not hunted turkeys in the last three years. Hunts can range from one day to several days, with some open the entire spring turkey season.

To view a list of current special hunts available, visit www.ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting/Special Hunts Information.”

-30-

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KANSAS WILDLIFE, PARKS AND TOURISM COMMISSION APPROVES REGULATIONS

Public hearing held for wildlife and park regulation changes

WINFIELD – The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission conducted a public hearing in Winfield on Jan. 9 to consider amendments to several wildlife and park regulations. Public hearings are held to discuss and vote on regulation changes after recommendations have been proposed in two previous commission meetings.

In first action, Commissioners listened to recommendations on increases for utility and seasonal camping fees. Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) staff recommended camping fee increases to accommodate rising utility rates. Current utility camping fees are $7.50 for one utility, $9.50 for two and $10.50 for three utilities per camping night. The commission approved raising the rates to $9 for one utility, $11 for two and $12 for three utilities per night.

Seasonal camping fees, which are charged by the month, were increased $30.50 to $270.50 for one utility, $330.50 for two utilities and $390.50 for three utilities per month at all parks except El Dorado, Milford and Tuttle creek state parks. The seasonal monthly fees at El Dorado, Milford and Tuttle Creek state parks were increased $30.50 to $310.50 for one utility, $370.50 for two utilities and $430.50 for three utilities.

Commissioners approved the recommended increases.

The second public hearing item was a house-cleaning issue on the regulation defining the scoring system used to determine restitution for big game animals taken illegally. The recommendation more clearly defined a measurable point to “a projection on the antler of a deer or elk at least 1 inch long as measured from its tip to the nearest edge of the antler beam and the length of which exceeds the width at one inch or more of length.” The commission approved this recommendation.

And in final action, the commission approved changes to the fall turkey season bag limits. Turkey populations declined in most regions from 2004-2008 because adverse weather impacted spring nesting success and brood survival.  Success rates for spring hunters dropped accordingly, triggering a change in regulations. KDWPT staff recommended reducing the fall turkey bag limit from four turkeys to one turkey in Turkey Management Units 3, 5 and 6. The fall limit remains one turkey for Unit 1 (northwest) and the season bag limit will remain four turkeys in Unit 2 (northcentral). Unit 4 (southwest) is closed to fall turkey hunting. Commissioners approved the season bag limit change, as well as proposed season dates of Oct. 1-Dec. 3, 2014 and Dec. 16, 2014-Jan. 31, 2015.

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2014 LICENSES AND PERMITS GO ON SALE DEC. 16

Buy a license or permit and give the gift of the outdoors this holiday

PRATT – Looking for the perfect gift for dad? Need an affordable stocking stuffer for the kids? Consider purchasing a 2014 hunting or fishing license. Starting Monday, Dec. 16, 2013, all licenses and permits for the 2014 season will go on sale, and for those looking for one last “hoorah” of the year, 2014 license holders can hit the field or a stream the very same day.

2014 hunting and fishing licenses and permits can be purchased online at ksoutdoors.com, at any Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism state park or regional office, and at any license vendor beginning Dec. 16.

New this year, significant price reductions have been placed on youth deer, turkey and antelope permits, for hunters age 15 and younger. Youth fees that have been reduced beginning 2014 are as follows:

RESIDENT

General Resident Youth Deer Permit: $10.00

General Resident Youth Antelope Permit: $10.00

General Resident Youth Turkey Permit (1-bird limit): $5.00

Resident Youth Turkey Game Tag (1-bird limit): $5.00

General Resident Youth Turkey Permit/Game Tag Combination (2-bird limit): $10.00

NONRESIDENT

Nonresident Youth Turkey Permit (1-bird limit): $10.00

Nonresident Youth Turkey Game Tag (1-bird limit): $10.00

Nonresident Youth Turkey Permit/Game Tag Combination (2-bird limit): $20.00

Nonresident Youth Combination 2-deer Permit (antlered deer and antlerless white-tailed deer): $90.00

Nonresident Youth Antelope Permit (Archery only): $100.00

For more information, visit ksoutdoors.com

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NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION HOSTS YOUTH TURKEY HUNTING CAMP

Two-day camp offers youth a crash course on turkey hunting taught by local experts

PRATT ­– The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is hosting the 2013 Kansas State JAKES Camp September 14-15 at White Memorial Camp, six miles north of Council Grove. Youth age 17 and younger can participate in a variety of fun and educational activities, including fishing, arts and crafts, deer hunting, trap and target shooting, archery, and canoeing.

Participants will also have the opportunity to attend several presentations, including “Quail in Kansas,” presented by the Council Grove Chapter of the Quail and Upland Game Federation; “The World of Sporting Dogs,” presented by KVOE radio host Phil Taunton; and “Turkey Talk” presented by turkey hunting legend, author, outdoor TV personality, and Grand National turkey calling champion, Ray Eye.

Evening activities will include the NWTF Kansas State JAKES (youth 12 and under) and Xtreme JAKES (youth 13-17) turkey calling contests, as well as story-telling with Eye around the campfire.

The following morning, participants can enjoy a predator calling seminar with Knight & Hale Pro Staff member, Mick Bowman; a presentation on turkey biology and management from NWTF biologist, Brandon Houck; and a wildlife presentation by the Milford Nature Center. A sunrise service will also be made available to participants, led by Pastor Gary Cargill. Before heading home, participants will get to draw for prizes, as well as take home a commemorative t-shirt.

The cost to attend is $20 for JAKES members, $30 for non-JAKES members (which includes a JAKES membership), and $20 for adults. Lunch and dinner will be provided on Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.

The NWTF Kansas State JAKES Camp was awarded the "Best State JAKES Event" in 2012 and the "Best Special JAKES Event" in 2013 at the NWTF National Convention in Nashville, TN.

For more information, contact Gib Rhodes at (620) 437-2012.

ARRIVAL OF SPRING PUTS TURKEY HUNTING BACK IN FULL STRUT

The sound of a turkey gobble is a sure sign of Spring and music to turkey hunters’ ears. This season will kick off with the youth/disabled and archery season April 1-9, followed by the regular firearm season April 10-May 31. Hunters have until May 30 to purchase a 2013 Spring turkey permit for Units 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6. A turkey permit is valid for one bearded turkey.

During the youth/disabled/archery season, hunters 16 and younger and hunters with disabilities may hunt with

April 1 Marks the start of the
2013 spring turkey season for archers,
 youth and disable hunters

any legal equipment, including shotguns, bows and crossbows.

NEW THIS SEASON: Recently-approved regulations removed gauge restrictions on shotguns for turkey hunting and allow crossbows during archery seasons. HOWEVER, hunters are reminded that the aforementioned changes WILL NOT go into affect until April 19, 2013. After that date, hunters may use any gauge shotgun or muzzleloading shotgun with shot size No. 2 through No. 9.

Kansas youth 16 and under can purchase a spring turkey permit valid statewide for $12.50, or a combo permit/game tag for $17.50.

Permit/Game Tag combos are available only through March 31. After March 31, hunters must purchase a spring turkey permit and spring turkey game tag at the regular price.

Other spring turkey fees are as follows:

RESIDENT

-Resident Permit: $22.50

-Resident Combo Permit/Game Tag: $27.50 (through March 31 only)

-Resident Turkey Game Tag: $12.50

LANDOWNER/TENANT

-Landowner/Tenant Permit: $12.50

-Landowner/Tenant COMBO Permit/Game Tag: $17.50 (through March 31 only)

NONRESIDENT

-Nonresident Permit: $32.50

-Nonresident COMBO Permit/Game Tag: $47.50 (through March 31 only)

-Nonresident Turkey Game Tag $22.50

Any individual who has purchased a spring turkey permit is also eligible for one spring turkey game tag. Spring game tags are valid for Units 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6.

Hunters who drew a Unit 4 (southwest Kansas) spring turkey permit earlier this year may also use their Unit 4 permit in adjacent Units 1, 2 and 5.

Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.

For more information, consult your 2013 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlas, or visit www.ksoutdoors.com.

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SPRING TURKEY HUNTING ATLAS MORE THAN MAPS

2013 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlas features information valuable to all hunters

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) 2013 Spring Turkey Hunting Atlas is now available. In addition to maps, the 66-page atlas will also feature area contact information, sunrise-sunset tables, cabin locations, and information on Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) areas, making it a must-have for all hunters.

“Nearly 200,000 acres are currently enrolled in the spring WIHA program, so public hunting opportunities abound in Kansas this spring,” said KDWPT private lands coordinator Jake George. “In addition, the spring hunting atlas will look considerably different to those who recall the format used in previous years.”

The new layout will also be used in the Spring 2013 Fishing Atlas and Fall 2013 Hunting Atlas. The long-overdue changes include the addition of a shaded relief backdrop, county road names (where available), stream names and much more.

“It is our hope that the new atlas will make it easier for hunters to get out, locate, and utilize these WIHA tracts,” said George.

Hunters can download an electronic version of the atlas from the KDWPT website, and file downloads that can be loaded onto Garmin GPS units. There are also file downloads for Android and iOS devices that can be used with Google Earth.

The 2013 spring turkey season will begin with the archery and youth/disabled season April 1-9, followed by the regular firearm season April 10-May 31.

2013 Spring turkey permit for Units 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 are available online or at any license vendor through May 30.

Hunters who drew a Unit 4 (southwest Kansas) spring turkey permit earlier this year may also use their Unit 4 permit in adjacent Units 1, 2 and 5.

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HOW TO AGE SPRING TOM TURKEYS

A few simple measurements can provide approximate age of birds
PRATT — The regular Kansas spring turkey season runs through May 31, and many hunters have already bagged a big gobbler. Proud hunters often compare the size of their birds, and this can lead to many friendly arguments. But another, less tangible question often puzzles turkey hunters: How old is that bird?
Many myths surround this subject. Some say that any bird over 20 pounds is at least three years old. Others say that a 9-inch beard is a sure sign that your turkey is at least 4 years old. Still others claim that a sharp spur 3/4-inch long indicates a three-year-old bird. What’s the truth?
Biologists with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism provide information that would seem to settle much of the debate about a turkey’s age. First of all, many things can affect the weight of a bird, so weight is not a factor. Spur and beard length, however, are important factors in determining a turkey’s age. Use the following rules of thumb to determine approximate age of your bird, keeping in mind that these are approximations for this region of the country and that habitat and other factors may affect these guidelines:
Spur Length = Age of Turkey
1/2 inch or less = 1 year (jake)
1/2-7/8 inch and blunt = 2 years
7/8-1 inch = 2+ years
1+ inch and sharp = 3+ years
1 ¼ + = 4 years
Beard Length = Age of Turkey
3-5 inches = 1 year
6-9 inches with amber tip = 2 years
10+ inches = 3+ years
To differentiate juvenile and adult birds from a distance, look at the tail fan while the bird is strutting. A bird with longer feathers in the middle or on the side of the fan is a juvenile while uniform length in tail feathers indicates an adult bird. With a harvested bird, you can distinguish adult from juvenile by examining the two outermost primary wing feathers — those longest feathers on the end of the wing. On adult birds, these two primaries will be rounded and have white barring extending to the very end. On juvenile birds, these feathers will be much more pointed and have no barring near the tip.
Of course, any tom turkey is a prize, and the opportunity to watch and hunt these fascinating birds is one of the most exciting outdoor activities of spring. The turkey season is long, running from early April through the end of May each year, so Kansas should offer the avid hunter many opportunities yet to come this spring.

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12TH ANNUAL COUNCIL GROVE YOUTH TURKEY HUNT A BIG SUCCESS

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fifteen youth participated, taking nine birds
COUNCIL GROVE — On April 7, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) conducted the 12th Annual Council Grove Spring Turkey Hunt. A rainy spring morning did not hamper 15 eager area youngsters the morning of the hunt, and by day’s end, all the participants were fortunate to see or hear wild turkeys. Eight of the participants harvested a turkey (two for one younger hunter) while others enjoyed encounters with their quarry but were unable to harvest. It was the first turkey for each of those who harvested a bird.
Area landowners provided access for this special event, which has become a big draw for area youth. The primary goal of the hunt was to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for area youngsters, bringing them together with others of like interest. Young were paired with knowledgeable and experienced adult volunteers in an effort to initiate or further entice participants to enjoy the spring pastime of wild turkey hunting. All participants received hands-on hunting instruction, turkey hunting gear, and meals.

The following individuals and organizations assisted with the hunt:
Organizations: The National Wild Turkey Federation, The Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation, KDWPT, the U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers, and Cabela’s of Wichita.
Individuals: Randy Benteman, Marvin Peterson, Brandon Houck, Jared McJunkin, Tyson Powell, Spencer Tomb, Allan Cashman, Mike Wells, Mark Hawkins, Phillip Buttrey, Jim Evans, Jason Harris, Nanci Sigle, Martin Godlove, Josh Patry, Alden Neff, Derek Jackson, and Trent and Frank Siegle.
“I would like to sincerely thank all of those who contributed to this 12th annual event,” said Brent Konen, Council Grove Wildlife Area manager and organizer of the hunt. “By donating resources and sharing their time and talents, they instilled not only an interest in turkey hunting in 15 area youth but also enhanced their appreciation for the outdoor world and developed some lasting friendships and memories to last a lifetime. Without the dedication and support of volunteers, this rewarding event would not be possible each year.”
Volunteers interested in helping with next year’s hunt should phone Konen at 620-767-5900.

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KDWPT VOLUNTARY ELECTRONIC TURKEY REGISTRATION ONLINE

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Photo electronic turkey registration helps hunters comply with transportation laws
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) reminds all spring turkey hunters that immediately after taking a turkey, the permit holder must sign the carcass tag and record on it the county, date, and time of kill, then attach the carcass tag to the bird in a visible manner before moving it from the kill site. During the spring season, only turkeys with a visible beard may be taken, so the beard of the turkey must remain naturally attached to the breast while in transit from the kill site to the permittee’s residence or a commercial place of processing or preservation.
However, a bird maybe dressed for transport if the hunter obtains a transportation confirmation number after electronically registering the turkey on the agency’s website (ksoutdoors.com), or the permittee has retained photographs necessary for electronic registration until registration occurs.

What is electronic registration? Using a camera-reading cell phone, this convenient system allows the permit holder to upload two images of a just-killed turkey, making legal to transport the bird without the carcass tag attached. (At this time the system does not work with certain cell phones.) Here’s how it works:

1. Click the “Check-in Turkey” button at https://programs.ksoutdoors.com/Programs/Electronic-Turkey-Check-in.
2. Here, either Login to an existing account or create a new account. (Save this account information; it will be used for other purposes such as deer check-in and future special hunts.)
3. If you have created a new account, you will need to click "Check-in Turkey" again.
4. Once logged in, fill out all the information requested.
5. Upload two photos of the turkey. One of the photos must be a close-up shot of the turkey tag attached to the turkey. The tag must be visible and filled out with the correct information. The second photo must be a view of the complete turkey with the tag attached and beard visible.
6. Once files appear, click the “Submit” button to finish.
7. Keep the confirmation number with the turkey tag.

This is not a telephone registration system, and it is not required. The system allows KDWPT staff to see the turkey and the hunter’s completed tag without the time and expense of maintaining a check station. This flexibility is a benefit to both the hunter and KDWPT. For more information, go online to ksoutdoors.com and click “Electronic Turkey Check-in” in the “Topics” box.

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2012 SPRING TURKEY ATLAS NOW AVAILABLE

Female Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) taken near Rideau River, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Publication shows all land open to spring turkey hunting; online version also available
PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has announced that the2012 Kansas Spring Turkey Atlas is now available at KDWPT offices and license vendors around the state. An online version is currently available on the agency's website, ksoutdoors.com. To view or download the atlas from the KDWPT website, click “Hunting/Where To Hunt In Kansas/2012 Spring Turkey Atlas.” View or print all or portions of the atlas.

This is an indispensible tool for anyone looking for a new place hunt, or for those who don’t yet have a place to go. The atlas pinpoints access to all land in Kansas open to public spring turkey hunting, including Walk-In Hunting Access land, which is private land leased by KDWPT. This spring, more than 190,000 acres of Walk-In land are available, in addition to state and federal wildlife areas.

The 2012 spring youth/disabled and archery turkey seasons run April 1-10. The regular spring season runs April 11-May 31. Turkey permits allow hunters to use a shotgun, crossbow, or bow throughout the regular season.

Turkey permits valid in units 1, 2, and 3 may be purchased online from the KDWPT website or over the counter at any license vendor. (Unit 4 — southwest Kansas — is a draw-only area, except that youth permits are valid in all units, including Unit 4.) A turkey regulations summary may be downloadedfrom the KDWPT website and printed or obtained at KDWPT offices. The brochure can be used only for general regulations regarding the 2012 Kansas spring turkey hunting season.

Huntable populations of wild turkeys exist in nearly every Kansas county. The Rio Grande subspecies dominates the western two-thirds of the state, and the eastern subspecies is common in the eastern regions. Hybrid Rio Grande/eastern birds may be found where the two ranges converge.

Spring turkey permit and game tags fees are as follow:

• Resident General permit — $22.50;
• Resident Combo permit/game tag (available through March 31) — $27.50;
• Resident Youth permit — $12.50;
• Resident Youth Combo permit/game tag (available through March 31) — $17.50;
• Resident game tag — $12.50;
• Landowner/Tenant permit — $12.50;
• Landowner/Tenant Combo permit/game tag — $17.50 (available through March 31);
• Nonresident General permit — $32.50;
• Nonresident Combo permit/game tag (available through March 31) — $47.50;
• Nonresident game tag­ — $22.50;
• Unit 4 Resident General permit­ — $27.50;
• Unit 4 Resident Landowner/Tenant Permit — $17.50; and
• Unit 4 Preference Point — $6.50.

A 2012 hunting license is required in addition to a turkey permit.

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